Back home

So after a quick little trip to Vegas, we are back home! I swear, nothing is better than seeing that "Welcome to Arizona!" sign anytime we drive back into our wonderful state. The weekend was wonderful though, won quite a bit of money and spent some great quality time together. And yes, you heard me right...I gambled, and won! I ended up playing a lot of "Let it Ride," which is a poker game at the card tables. It's my favorite and so fun. I also played this funny little slot machine that has a hamburger theme and won a lot too! Overall great time. It was very relaxing and fun to just kick back a little with Hank and his very generous family. Both sides of his family do so much for us and I always hope they know how much I/we appreciate them. So sweet. So yes, it was such a good time, and I was also able to workout every morning in the hotel gym which made me really happy. The only downfall was being around smoke 24/7 in the casinos- disgusting. My skin really feels gross after being around that for even just a few days.<br /><br />Now I am just focusing on getting situated and getting ready for some house guests this week! Jonathan and Melanie will be up Thursday, along with Sarah too! My parents arrive Saturday and then we leave for Lake Powell Sunday, so it's a pretty busy rest of the week but I am super excited for all of it. Tomorrow I am spending the day on "me" stuff, relaxing and re-centering. :)<br /><br />So, here are a couple of photos from the trip!<br /><br />driving to LV<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677069586/" title="driving by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="driving" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2674/3677069586_04c8e292c0.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677069386/" title="heading to vegas by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="heading to vegas" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2600/3677069386_5fcae4b8ae.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />view from our wonderful room<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3676255199/" title="view by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="view" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3618/3676255199_e43c976262.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />just arrived, heading down to eat<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677070758/" title="goodnight! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="goodnight!" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2666/3677070758_665b0f4727.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />next morning, heading to breakfast<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3676259111/" title="sunday by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="sunday" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3676259111_8d758eac31.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />gambling legs<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677073454/" title="<3 by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="<3" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2664/3677073454_d149826c76.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Hank playing Let it Ride<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3676261083/" title="my fave poker game! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="my fave poker game!" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2666/3676261083_72eb223f06.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Hank, his Uncle Bruce, and Grandpa (step-mom's Dad)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3676260825/" title="hank, uncle bruce, and grandpa by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="hank, uncle bruce, and grandpa" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2661/3676260825_bab985278d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Hank, step-mom, and Dad :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677075236/" title="hank's stepmom, hank's dad, and hank playing "let it ride" poker by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="hank's stepmom, hank's dad, and hank playing "let it ride" poker" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2468/3677075236_0eef920bfd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />another day, another mirror pic, good morning Las Vegas day #3!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3676261371/" title=""the hamptons do las vegas" by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt=""the hamptons do las vegas"" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3676261371_82d7c5177e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />playing that blessed, wonderful Hamburger game! I love it!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3677076322/" title="i won a lot on this blessed machine by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="i won a lot on this blessed machine" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2545/3677076322_c1c512d5a2.jpg" width="375" /></a>

Back home

So after a quick little trip to Vegas, we are back home! I swear, nothing is better than seeing that "Welcome to Arizona!" sign an...

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Saturday

First of all, I want to say thanks again to all of my readers for the comments on all of my blogs, y'all are the best. And weird, I don't think I've ever typed out "y'all" but I strangely like it.<br /><br />Now I may be alone in this, but I am such a morning person. I love getting up at 6am (5am when I'm working) and getting my workout done early and just enjoy the mornings. I love going to bed early and waking up early. Today is a good day, so no wonder I jumped out of bed. Hank had to do a few things at the salon this morning, and when he is done we'll be heading to Las Vegas for the weekend, I am so excited to just swim all weekend in Mandalay Bay's pool, shop, and eat yummy food. I'm not a gambler at all I think its sad to just throw money away like that. Last time we were there with Hank's Dad, he gave me a lot of money and had me gamble with it. I played cards and all sorts of stuff and even though it was fun because it wasn't my money, I ended up crying at the end of the night because I felt so guilty for wasting it. But I guess people think its fun and that's why they spend the money. As for me, I hate it. Hank likes to play poker and blackjack, so if he wants to do that I will probably just find a comfy little seat at the nickle slots so I don't feel guilty for throwing money away if I don't win! No tears this trip! Haha. I know it sounds silly but that's really how I feel. So anway, gambling is not my thing, but I do like Vegas a lot because I truly enjoy doing the whole pool thing. Give me a comfy loungechair and beautiful pool anytime. And luckily Hank is the same way. When we went to Tahiti we literally spent almost two weeks doing that, mixed with swimming in the ocean and it never got boring.<br /><br />Errands now, but in just a bit Vivaaaaaa Las Vegas! Yay!

Saturday

First of all, I want to say thanks again to all of my readers for the comments on all of my blogs, y'all are the best. And weird, I don...

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She is so happy her Dad is home!

<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3664055848/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2479/3664055848_9985ae4e82.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3664055848/">she is so happy her dad is home!</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>I picked Hank up from the airport this morning and she immediately fell asleep on his chest. It just about melted my heart with the cuteness. Her cone is still on in this photo, but her staple removal just happened today around 4:30 so the baby is currently cone and staple free...back to her normal self!</p>

She is so happy her Dad is home!

she is so happy her dad is home! , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . I picked Hank up from the airport this morning and she immediate...

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Goodnight

<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649945642/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3410/3649945642_d0d8742179.jpg" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649945642/">good morning sunday!</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>This photo was from a few days ago but I have such a "hello" look on my face that I thought I'd post it ;). I am actually bored right now, which is weird for me. I have no desire to watch a movie, to read a book, or to really do much of anything so you, blog, are here to keep my thoughts company I guess. After taking a total "me" day today tomorrow will be a fun filled something or other type of day with Amber. I want to see The Proposal but the only other person I know who'd enjoy it with me would be my sister. I am such a sappy romantic and love love love movies like that, and so does she. Perhaps I could coerce A. into seeing it with me tomorrow afternoon but I'm not too sure she'd enjoy it.<br /><br />Obviously in my solitude today I thought a lot, and I thought about how silly and petty so many things are. I have grown up a lot over the past year or so (I'm not too sure why my 26th year was the year of the most positive growth thus far, very weird), and I have really figured out a lot. Really, all that matters to me in life is my family. Hank first, and then my parents and sister, and my friends who are my family. I know a lot of people add their career in there, but the moment we have kids I feel my number one and most important job (the job I was made for!) is to be a mom at home. But back to the topic of friends, I used to be someone who had so many friends, I loved to be around so many people. But as I've gotten older, I have really narrowed down my list of close friends to a handful. Sure, I have tons of people I care about, but in terms of people I really "let in," those are few and far between. At this point in my life I'm so focused on making my life what I want it to be, really thinking about starting our family, I have no time for anyone who isn't a loving and positive addition to my life. So that takes care of so many people who don't fit into that criteria.<br /><br />Lately I've really been feeling thankful for Hank- more so than I usually do, if that's even possible. If you know me, you know I am not the biggest fan of guys in general. I cannot stand egotistical jerks who can't show their emotions or creepy dudes or pushover dudes, or un-hygenic dudes...I'm really just not so into guys, seriously. Many of them really gross me out. I dated an awful lot in high school and college and kissed a million toads (and some nice guys too...haha) before I found my prince! I never knew someone could love me, imperfect me, so much. My mind is blown almost daily by how kind and loving Hank is. I see the way he is with Madeline and it melts my heart to know that someday soon he will be the same kind of father, accepting and loving, and never too proud to do or say anything.<br /><br />Life's funny. It goes by so quickly and in a blink a year has passed, two years, and then somehow I'm officially in my late 20s. I'm married. I'm a teacher. And I literally still feel 17 most of the time. I think when I'm 80 I will still feel that way, and I hope I do. I try and look at everyday in a positive way, even when it's hard. This past year has been a true nightmare for my family, between all of the health problems and complications. But we're okay. And I'm okay! I think it takes a lot more energy for me to be upset than happy. The moment I start to stress I will get anxiety and worry myself sick over whatever it is. If I can avoid that, and just look on the bright side, that's the battle for me. Instead of choosing to be upset, I can choose to be happy and disregard the rest. I am lucky to have a really great support system around me who recognizes that sometimes it is a struggle for me, and does their best to support my choice to be happy. I know in the past, people have asked me, how are you so happy all of the time? Seriously though, I'm not always happy...but I am always working to be happy, and the road to happiness is a lot better place to be than anywhere negative. I've had my fair share of depression, and feeling down- my sister has seen a lot of that in my sometimes tumultuous teenage years- but growing out of that and into a strong, positive woman has been an amazing transformation for me. It's crazy to think about how much changes from the teens, to early 20s...to this. For the past five years it's been a wonderful shift in both my life and myself, and I really love where I'm headed, and where I am now. :)</p><p>If you've read this far, thanks for reading! Have a beautiful night!<br /></p>

Goodnight

good morning sunday! , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . This photo was from a few days ago but I have such a "hello" look ...

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Yesterday, Today

Yesterday was an awesome day. I woke up around 7am and said goodbye to Hank, who was flying out to record with a new band. Our friend Matt drove him down to Phoenix, so I was happy I didn't have to make that turn around trip after coming home from CA myself just the night before. I was sad to see him go, but there have been times when he has been on tour for two or three months so a week is not a big deal at all. I actually enjoy it in a way, because it gives me time to do as I please and savor all the alone time. Don't get me wrong, I'm still sad of course to be apart, but by nature I am a bit of a loner at times and really revel in self-time. Plus, Hank is exceptionally great at keeping in touch (he's only toured out of the country twice with no service), and writes me lovely, lovely long emails, calls all the time, bbms, and sends postcards, so it's nice to mix it up and have to rely on writing and other forms of communication. So, after the hubby left I did some cuddling and lounging around with Madeline before I decided to get up and enjoy the day. I met Amber for lunch at Hugo's, which turned into a two hour Mexican food girl talk session. It was great. She got some sort of green chile tamale thing and I got a bowl of beans and veggies. Truly delicious. I haven't had Hugo's since mid-May so it was nice to enjoy one of my favorite spots in town. When Hank is home we usually go once or twice a week so I have been going through serious withdrawals being gone so much. After our lunch we strolled around, got tea at Cuppers and sat and talked more on the square. We ran into Scott, walked a bit more, and I headed home to do some errands. Overall it was a perfect day.<br /><br />I went to bed pretty early (after watching The Bachelorette, of course) and woke up this morning in a great mood. I decided to take today as a "me" day, and do all the things I love to do. I am currently still in my pjs actually, and enjoying every second. I need to run out in a minute and do a few errands around town, but when I return I plan on watching movies and relaxing until I hit the gym around 7pm. Last summer I was super busy as well I made a point for this summer to take days like this, not hanging out with anyone, no obligations, and just enjoy my time. So here I am!<br /><br />I hope all of you have a great day!

Yesterday, Today

Yesterday was an awesome day. I woke up around 7am and said goodbye to Hank, who was flying out to record with a new band. Our friend Matt d...

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Madeline is a loved puppy

<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3654749538/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2478/3654749538_df7fb19eb6.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3654749538/">get well treats for madeline, from aunt amber and lilly</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>Auntie Amber came by yesterday with get wells treats and a card for Madeline, from her and Lilly. So sweet.</p>

Madeline is a loved puppy

get well treats for madeline, from aunt amber and lilly , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . Auntie Amber came by yesterday with get w...

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Wonderful Weekend

This past weekend was one of the best I've had in a long time. I came down Friday and met Emily for lunch at Pita Jungle, and it was wonderful to spend time with my dear friend and sit and talk for a long while. We can barely wait until I am with her in Brooklyn next month! It was a beautiful, warm day in Phoenix, a perfect day actually. We both ordered the Macro platter, which is my favorite thing on the menu. <br /><br />After lunch with Em, I headed over to Alana's where Shirley was waiting, and we hit the road to Long Beach, California. We left around 3pm and made it there around 9pm or so, which was a great time considering we stopped to eat. I usually like to fly when I go to CA but it was so nice to be with the girls and have a long time to catch up on our busy lives! When we arrived Chloe (Autumn and Jason's daughter) was already down for the night so we all just sat around and chit chatted. <br /><br />Saturday morning we woke up and went for a run along the beach, followed by a yummy breakfast. Chloe's first birthday party (on the beach) was set for noon that day and unfortunately the rain and gloom would just not let up. Regardless though we got ready and walked down to the cove where Jason and Autumn's mom Libby had already set up the tent and go all the food ready. Just as we got there, the sun came through and the sprinkling stopped, it was perfect- a little cool at time but overall great. It turned into a beautiful, sunny day. There were a million kids there, playing in the water and the sand, lots of delicious food and great company. I attempted to play volleyball for a minute but my soccer roots kept taking over and it was hard for me to not use my feet. I'm horrible at volleyball anyway, so I left that up to the girls. The entire day was awesome, Chloe was so happy and her 1st birthday was a total success!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648946577/" title="girls girls girls by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="girls girls girls" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3347/3648946577_2c6089cfcd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648947165/" title="beach birthday party by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="beach birthday party" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3353/3648947165_42e8d62a64.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648948225/" title="yum by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="yum" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3543/3648948225_558f8e4e05.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648946013/" title="alana and me by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="alana and me" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/3648946013_4a741bdf90.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648945143/" title="the loops by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="the loops" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/3648945143_103cee4fb9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648943913/" title="birthday girl! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="birthday girl!" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2480/3648943913_6873f7f1eb.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648948799/" title="she is SO excited by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="she is SO excited" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3632/3648948799_1ecb7a1cc5.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648957575/" title="alana and me walking back to the house by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="alana and me walking back to the house" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3373/3648957575_5586d553d3.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />(tons more photos at my Flickr too)<br /><br />Since Grandma Libby was in town, it allowed all of us to go out Saturday night. We started with a big family dinner at Yen Sushi down on 2nd St. The sushi was okay, definitely not the best I've had but still good. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649762536/" title="heading to sushi by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="heading to sushi" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3607/3649762536_81bce66679.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648960291/" title="sushi by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="sushi" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3538/3648960291_088de7a447.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649763378/" title="shirl girl and me by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="shirl girl and me" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3315/3649763378_aca2932fd9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649763742/" title="the loops by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="the loops" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2442/3649763742_cf2879b9a6.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />After sushi we headed out on the town, we ended up Morrie's Wine Bar and then finished the night at Legends in downtown Belmont Shore. We went to bed super late, so Sunday was a late start, around 9am. I had already celebrated Father's Day with my Dad so it was really fun to spend Sunday morning with the new dad, Jason! We ate brunch at La Creperie and it turned out to be on the best breakfasts I've ever had- super fresh whole foods and great service. Sunday was also Chloe's official birthday so we got her a little strawberry crepe and sang to the happy baby. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649768222/" title="la creperie- so delicious by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="la creperie- so delicious" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3302/3649768222_2e10c20712.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648965225/" title="chloe by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="chloe" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3322/3648965225_2f7ca684b0.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3649768574/" title="mimosas by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="mimosas" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3649768574_58c034978c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3648963237/" title="bestie by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="bestie" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3648963237_aa25a7122a.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />It really was the best weekend and I was sad to leave, but I know I'll be back within the month. I got home last night and was pleasantly surprised by a sparkling clean house and some cute little surprises from Hank! The house was already super clean before I left but he did all the floors for me and hung up some things I had needed to be put up. We got to spend a great night together last night, before he left for CA this morning to record all week. So now it's just Madeline and me! This week should be a good one though- lots of hangouts with Amber Joy, and then Sarah will be coming to visit Thursday, and then Hank and I leave for a weekend in Las Vegas on Saturday. I am so excited for shopping and pool time and good food and gambling! We always have so much fun whenever we go. The moment we get there I will be by the pool- it's weird how it's Vegas but when you're at any of the nicer resort pools you could be anywhere. This weekend should be in the 100s and I am loving that! I know it's weird, but I enjoy hot hot days. Call me crazy. It's so wild how busy we are right now, we get home from Vegas, have a few days to unwind, and then we have visitors that next weekend and then leave for the houseboat for another week! I am really savoring this week at home right now, and it's nice to be able to do some cooking and baking, relax on the couch, watch movies, etc.<br /><br />In a weird way I am already looking forward to going back to teach in August. It's great to have a profession that I look forward to going to everyday. I'm also excited to meet a whole new group of kids and get to know them, read novels, etc. Next year will hopefully be a really "big" year for Hank and I, and I really can't wait for everything.<br /><br />So, here's to a new week, positive attitudes, and fun!<br /><br />Thanks for reading.<br /><br />xo

Wonderful Weekend

This past weekend was one of the best I've had in a long time. I came down Friday and met Emily for lunch at Pita Jungle, and it was won...

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Hey Dad,

<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/2608432014/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/2608432014_baa3872af6.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/2608432014/">daddy and me</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>Happy Father's Day! I love you. :)</p>

Hey Dad,

daddy and me , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . Happy Father's Day! I love you. :)

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Wednesday

Today was a great day. I woke up to find that Little Miss Madeline's swelling was almost all gone, and she was in great spirits- much better than the day before, of course. I spent the day with her, laying around and organizing/cleaning the house. I eventually got ready and headed off to do some errands before Hank got home; I was nervous to leave Madeline for a minute but she was fine. When I got back Hank and I walked down to Esoji (Japanese/sushi) and had a great belated birthday dinner with his family. His Mom is always vacationing and we have been gone so much so we couldn't celebrate closer to our birthdays, but it was nice having yet another celebration! We received very generous gifts and had a great meal with wonderful people. Afterward Hank and I went on a long walk downtown, which was nice because today was my day off from the gym and I was happy to get a little activity in. Now Hank is at a band meeting followed by practice, and I am here in our newly organized bedroom making playlists for our girls roadtrip this weekend. I am really excited to spend some time with my girlfriends and be on the beach for a few days! <br /><br />Lately I have really, really been wanting to get new bedroom furniture (and living room too) but I know I can't until we buy a house. It's hard for me to wait, but I know its for the best so we can actually decorate when the time comes and not have random stuff that doesn't fit in our home. We won't be buying for awhile, but we're always looking. Hank has less than a year of school and then everything changes. Can't wait :). <br /><br />Tomorrow I will be spending time with one of my greatest friends, Emily. She is in town for the weekend so tomorrow is the only day both of our schedules work out, between her working schedule and my trip. I'm very excited to see her!<br /><br />So, that's it for me today. I need to go do some more packing and then I will be going to sleep. I hope all of you had a wonderful day!

Wednesday

Today was a great day. I woke up to find that Little Miss Madeline's swelling was almost all gone, and she was in great spirits- much be...

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Madeline

Our little pup Madeline had a really rough day yesterday. We started noticing a lump under her jaw on Sunday, and it had us really worried so we planned on taking her to vet's office first thing Monday morning. When I woke up around 6:45 am or so, the lump had nearly doubled in size, and also migrated into her throat. It looked so horrible, and although she didn't seem to be in any pain we couldn't help but be super scared. We literally rolled out of bed and took her straight to the vet's, where they determined that a piece of foxtail grass -<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3631126210/" title="that evil foxtail. via hank's flickr by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="that evil foxtail. via hank's flickr" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3631126210_62128341ae.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />had gotten up under her back molar somehow, made its way down under her tooth, and into her cheek cavity where it formed a huge abscess and serious infection! It's hard to believe such a small thing could cause so much damage. It was really a fluke thing- although foxtails in dogs ears, paws and snout are a common occurrence, one causing this much havoc is not. The vet said we were very, very lucky we brought her in when we did because it could have be life threatening, as it was getting close to blocking her airway.<br /><br />They had to slice open her throat/cheek (the incision is huge- there are some photos on my flickr so click on either of these photos to go there), and there is currently a drain running from her cheek, down through her throat. She is on pain meds and antibiotics as well. For these first couple of days (until Wednesday) she can't have any visitors and I need to stay with her. The hole in her cheek is so huge, and held with staples so if she gets excited or moves a lot it's dangerous. The pain medication makes her lethargic so I know we'll definitely make it to Wednesday without any issues. Madeline will then get the drain out Friday, and next week the staples will go. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3631071016/" title="sad baby, sad mama by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="sad baby, sad mama" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3631071016_1f5e22c16c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Madeline is seriously like our child and it was so heartbreaking when we first picked her up. I also had no idea that animal procedures could be so expensive, it's seriously insane. Obviously completely worth it though.<br /><br />During times like this, I feel really thankful that Hank and my schedule is so open. Thankfully he was not out tour right now because I don't know what I would have done, he is so calm in every situation- unlike me and my emotional self. I literally broke down in the vet's office, it was quite embarrassing. So Hank will be taking over babysitting duties on Thursday afternoon, when I head down to stay with Emily at her lovely hotel (sunning and swimming) and then head to California for Chloe's birthday weekend. I return on Sunday evening to resume puppy nurse status, and Hank flies out Monday morning to record with a new band. FUN! I am really, really excited for him about that, it's going to be amazing...but that's a whole different story :). So Ms. Maddie will have one of us with her all day, everyday. I am so happy about that.<br /><br />I'm currently sitting here on the couch, Madeline is asleep next to me. I just ate some Kashi Go Lean with almond milk and berries, and I am contemplating which movie to watch. OR shall I start True Blood? Netflix just sent me 3 good choices. Happy Tuesday to me and my recovering daug-ter (get it, daughter but a dog? hmm...)!

Madeline

Our little pup Madeline had a really rough day yesterday. We started noticing a lump under her jaw on Sunday, and it had us really worried s...

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Sister, sister!

My sister and I got (very large) sister tattoos this past week. They'll be shaded and colored in a couple of weeks.<br /><br />Here's us!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/2607669181/" title="my gorgeous sister and me by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="my gorgeous sister and me" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3200/2607669181_51992a3f5c.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />My very swollen leg:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3621800885/" title="new, done on 6/12 on my (very swollen) right thigh by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="new, done on 6/12 on my (very swollen) right thigh" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3621800885_38d3572099.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />And Lauren's!<p></p><br /><div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/39416639@N08/3618664670/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3595/3618664670_92784fe93a.jpg" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/39416639@N08/3618664670/">teacup tattoo outline</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/39416639@N08/">LaurHawth</a>.</span></div><p></p>

Sister, sister!

My sister and I got (very large) sister tattoos this past week. They'll be shaded and colored in a couple of weeks. Here's us! My ve...

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I love Prescott!

Today was such a wonderful day and reminded me yet again how happy I am to live here! The summers up in Prescott are definitely something to write home about- usually in the 70s-80s, fresh clean mountain air, and sunny. Today I spent the afternoon outside with friends and it was great. I walked down and met Amber Joy and Lilly (her new rescue puppy!) on the square around noon. I decided to leave Maddie home because Lilly hasn't gotten her spay scars out yet and I didn't want Madeline to encourage her to jump at all. There was the typical huge art fair downtown and Lilly was not having it, so we took her back to Amber's and then walked down to the Brew Pub to meet Adie, Addison and Cathy while they finished their beers. The afternoon turned into just relaxing, walking around and enjoying each other's company. Once Addy went home to eat the girls and I just sat in the grass on the square and had some much needed girl talk. Perfect weather, beautiful day. After hangouts we all decided to go see The Hangover, so we walked back to my house to get Hank and headed to the theater. I thought the movie was definitely funny- I've seen funnier, but this was total laugh out loud material, and it put me in a really good mood! Besides this splitting headache that suddenly appeared, that good mood is still here, now that I'm home and relaxing. Hank and Lance are recording in the living room, and I am going to spend the evening baking some blueberry flax muffins and continuing to organize this mess we made last night.<br /><br />I hope everyone had a lovely day! Here are some photos from this afternoon.<br /><br />Beautiful Prescott sky<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3627736392/" title="prescott sky, how i've missed you by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="prescott sky, how i've missed you" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3378/3627736392_3f2dc75e2f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Amber Joy and me<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3626922059/" title="it was a beautiful day! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="it was a beautiful day!" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3626922059_bf6fd183ed.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Cactus necklace, so cool<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3626914229/" title="cactus necklace! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="cactus necklace!" height="500" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3663/3626914229_ffeb4e6c3d.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Amber and Lilly<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3627726796/" title="the proud new mommy with her pup by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="the proud new mommy with her pup" height="500" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2433/3627726796_55d02c94ee.jpg" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Addison and Adie :)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3626916729/" title="adie and addy by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="adie and addy" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3401/3626916729_444081e1ce.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3627732828/" title="kaliedewhat? by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="kaliedewhat?" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3595/3627732828_6b38fbe315.jpg" width="500" /></a>

I love Prescott!

Today was such a wonderful day and reminded me yet again how happy I am to live here! The summers up in Prescott are definitely something to...

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Good morning Sunday!

I woke up super late today and I'm loving it, for once. Late last night Hank and I decided to rearrange our bedroom so I ended up staying up way too late, and we went to bed with it unfinished, which I hate! Hopefully this afternoon I'll be able to do the last of it. Today should be a great day, it's in the 70s and sunny, a typical perfect Prescott summer day. Amber and I are planning to spend the afternoon outside, introducing Madeline to her new puppy, Lilly! They'll be friends, for sure. Photos later!<br /><br />xo

Good morning Sunday!

I woke up super late today and I'm loving it, for once. Late last night Hank and I decided to rearrange our bedroom so I ended up stayin...

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Saturday

<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3622610311/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3359/3622610311_7329d5baab.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3622610311/">welcome home</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>Today was a great day. I got tattooed yesterday ("Tea for two" on me and "Two for tea" on my sister, with teacups and roses), and you can kind of see my extremely swollen thigh in this photo. Feels great. hah. But yeah, today was wonderful. Hank and I woke up and went food shopping - first to the local Farmer's Market, then to Costco, and finally New Frontiers. Because we were gone for so long we literally had to stock up on everything from ketchup to almond milk. I am looking forward to making some quinoa tabouli tomorrow, one of my favorite summer dishes. It keeps wonderfully in the fridge, and it super good as a quick side dish. I like to make a lot and then eat it throughout the week.<br /><br />After shopping we took Madeline on a long walk, hung out downtown for awhile, and stopped by the new "barkery," which is a bakery for pups! It's right down the street and we loved it, which is so great. I'd much rather buy from them than a chain store. We got Madeline a few things including a little collapsible water dish to keep in my purse.<br /><br />We got home and I went to the gym, had a great workout and now we just finished up watching "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," which was pretty okay.<br /><br />Tomorrow is one of my favorite days, Sunday! And what a nice feeling to not have to have a Monday at work immediately following.<br /><br />I'm in a cleaning mode so I am off to attack our hallway closets! Organize, organize!</p>

Saturday

welcome home , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . Today was a great day. I got tattooed yesterday ("Tea for two" on me and ...

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Home sweet home

Traveling is fun, but nothing feels like home! I'm in Phoenix now, until Friday- I get tattooed and have a few other odds and ends to tie up, and friends to see, before we head back up the mountain. Once I get back I'll only be in Prescott for about five days though, because Emily comes to town and I'll be with her at her hotel (swimming and sunning!), then heading to LA and Long Beach with Shirley and Alana. I feel very rushed but I know it will all be a lot of fun. Adie is in Prescott this weekend (and Amber gets back from San Francisco!), so it will be wonderful to do all our typical summer shenanigans. I know the summer is going to rush by- once I get back from LA, we have a bunch of stuff lined up- Amber Joy summer fun in Prescott, a week on the houseboat, LV, a week in San Diego, I'll be going to Brooklyn for awhile to stay with Em, Seattle/Portland, and LA a couple more times. I feel insane just typing it all out. Insane in a good way though! And then before I know it, I'll be back in my classroom come mid-August.<br /><br />We left the beach this morning around 3:45am (yuck- way too early) and flew out of Newark around 7am. I twittered (tweeted?) about this earlier, but there was a woman with a rather large dog in a bag sitting behind us. I totally understand bringing your little pup in one of those carry-on puppy bags, but this was a bigger dog, stuffed into a duffel bag! It was so bizarre but the dog seemed happy, I guess. I slept for a lot of the flight and watched episodes of Carnivale while awake, and it all went by pretty quickly. We arrived in Phoenix early this afternoon and because I felt so gross I immediately went to the gym. I seriously feel out of shape right now, even though I ran so much. I need to lift weights to stay toned and right now I am not so happy, but, what can ya do? So I got back in the gym and I will back to my normal routine again tomorrow morning. I figure if I kick my butt for a couple weeks I should feel okay. I hope I do! <br /><br />My body thinks it's 1:40am right now so I am going to sleep, I have a long day tomorrow. I am super excited because I am getting to spend time with someone who has been a big part of my life growing up, but I kind of lost touch with her somewhere along the way. My friend Rhonda was like my big sister from age 14 and throughout high school and part of college, and only recently did we reconnect. I am so happy about that! She is a really special person to me, and I have always felt a deep connection with her- soul sisters all the way! So tomorrow should be wonderful and I am really looking forward to it. <br /><br />Alright, now it's really bedtime! I hope if you're reading this you had a wonderful night! xoxo

Home sweet home

Traveling is fun, but nothing feels like home! I'm in Phoenix now, until Friday- I get tattooed and have a few other odds and ends to ti...

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quick morning post

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3605922572/" title="pretty cross processing by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="pretty cross processing" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3591/3605922572_23ef86d1fa.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />I woke up feeling really, really happy today. I'm not really sure why, but at 6:30am I sat up and kind of just exhaled. I didn't even know I was carrying around some sort of heavy stress, but something left me and I feel lighter and happier. Odd. But yeah, I've been up for quite awhile, and managed to finish a book I began just last night, get halfway through a second one, enjoy some Kashi Go Lean and almond milk, take a nap on a lounge chair in the fog, overlooking the ocean, and do some yoga. <br /><br />We leave in just a couple of days to go home, and I am looking forward to getting back into the routine of things. Early morning gym visits, cooking, our little house, and of course Madeline. Speaking of the gym, I haven't been in a gym for three weeks, which is insane for me. I've been running everyday but I miss the gym so much and I think besides Madeline, the "home" thing I am looking most forward to is working out.<br /><br />The rest of today is going to be fun- I'm planning on taking a beachcruiser all around town and the boardwalk, if this fog ever burns off! I tried to go early this morning but I literally couldn't see a few feet in front of me. Burn fog, burn!

quick morning post

I woke up feeling really, really happy today. I'm not really sure why, but at 6:30am I sat up and kind of just exhaled. I didn't eve...

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Cait's graduation

On Saturday, we headed up to beautiful Hillsborough, to attend Caitlyn's party, celebrating her graduation from UMass, where she played lacrosse and got a degree in English and Philosophy...and heading to law school next! I am so very proud of her. It's always such a neat thing to see someone you've spent your entire life with grow up and accomplish huge things, and it's especially special with Cait, because I have seen her from a little infant to now. She's all grown up! It was an amazing day. Uncle John's cousin is a chef for Donald Trump (haha!), and he created a huge, huge 10-course meal. I ate every single course, and it was all so delicious. I don't think I have eaten that much in years, but so worth it. They even cooked special things for Hank so he could enjoy too. <br /><br />Here are the few photos I took...I guess I was too busy eating! ;)<br /><br />It was a perfect day in their backyard...isn't all of that green beautiful! I have so many amazing memories spending so much of my childhood playing in that very grass.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3601837187/" title="beautiful day by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="beautiful day" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3409/3601837187_d7f0eee7a7.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Hank and me<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3601837395/" title="at cait's graduation party by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="at cait's graduation party" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3601837395_61845d579d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Uncle John and Hank<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3601837319/" title="crazies <3 by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="crazies <3" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3626/3601837319_77acc7faff.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Uncle John and Hank...again! They're crazy.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3601878635/" title="uncle john and hank! by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="uncle john and hank!" height="375" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/3601878635_1c9a683280.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />Corin and Lauren<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3601836901/" title="laur and corin by daniellehampton, on Flickr"><img alt="laur and corin" height="375" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3331/3601836901_0a584941ea.jpg" width="500" /></a>

Cait's graduation

On Saturday, we headed up to beautiful Hillsborough, to attend Caitlyn's party, celebrating her graduation from UMass, where she played ...

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NYC

<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3589835182/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3403/3589835182_845e956570.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/daniellehampton/3589835182/">the birthday boy and me</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/daniellehampton/">daniellehampton</a>.</span></div><p>I thought I would write a quick blog before I head to bed tonight. We’ve been on the East Coast for quite some time now, and I have been enjoying every moment. This week has been especially wonderful. On Monday we spent the day in NYC celebrating Hank’s birthday and it was a blast. We shopped a ton, ate a lot of yummy food, and I got to see my dear Emily. It was so, so good to see her, as I haven’t seen her since Hank and I got married last May. It filled my heart with such happiness to be able to spend the evening walking around the city with her. All in all it was a wonderful day, and I think Hank had a great birthday, which is what matters most of all.<br /><br />Tonight I am going to try to get to sleep early. Tomorrow we are spending the day on beach cruisers, biking all around town. I can’t wait! This summer has been one of my favorites so far, this trip has been especially therapeutic and I will be coming home with such a fresh perspective. Sometimes I get sad at the end of long vacations- it’s hard to go from straight relaxing for weeks to regular life, but there are so many things coming up it’s hard to feel down about these three weeks ending next week. The past couple of days it’s been a little foggy and rainy (tomorrow the sun comes back!) so I’ve been catching up on tons of reading and watched a few movies. <br /><br />Also, so many of my friends and acquaintances are pregnant or recently had babies! It’s hard not to catch the baby fever! I love kids so much and I really cannot wait to be a mom- it’s very exciting! In my mind, I’ve always said I want to be here in life, or there in life, but really when is the right time? Hmm...</p>

NYC

the birthday boy and me , originally uploaded by daniellehampton . I thought I would write a quick blog before I head to bed tonight. We’ve ...

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